Poehler was not the worst culprit. David Geffen, the philanthropist and former media mogul, was charged $30,000 (£21,280) after his 10-acre estate, known as Warner Estate, guzzled 1.6 million gallons - 27,000 a day - over two months between June and August.

The council said that was 500,000 gallons more than his permitted use.

Geffen, 73, founder of DreamWorks and Geffen records, said he was seeking permission to dig a well which would access a river flowing underneath his home into the sea, meaning he would not need to use the local supply.

Actress Amy Poehler Photo: Getty Images

Other high-profile excess users were Geoff Palmer, a controversial property developer, Brett Ratner director of the Rush Hour film series, and Jason “Max Mutchnick, a television producer co-credited with creating Will & Grace and Boston Common. All blamed leaking pipes for their over-use.

The fines were introduced after Beverly Hills was told to reduce its water use by 32 per cent over 2013 levels to meet state-wide cuts ordered by Jerry Brown, California’s governor.

The penalties have successfully cut waste, according to the council, which said Beverly Hills’ water consumption was down by 26 per cent in January.